To keep control of a Q&A session you need to be prepared.
The principles for handling the Q&A period
are simple. Here is an easy formula to help you remember them - ALRAM:
- Anticipate and prepare
- Listen
- Repeat or rephrase
- Answer concisely
- Move on to the next question
When questions are not forthcoming, plan how you'll get the ball rolling for Q&A.
Here are some options:
- Ask the first question yourself - "A question that frequently comes up is …"
- Use humor "Either I was extremely thorough or completely confusing."
- Plant someone in the audience to ask the first question.
- Distribute index cards at the beginning of your speech and ask them to write their questions.
For more information, read chapter 10, Q&A, Difficult People, and Deadly Disasters,
Knockout Presentations.
